What should be administered to a 39-year-old male with difficulty breathing at a high elevation?

Administering oxygen by non-rebreather mask while moving the patient to a lower elevation is the most appropriate course of action in this scenario. At high elevations, the availability of oxygen decreases, and individuals may experience hypoxia, leading to respiratory distress. Providing supplemental oxygen through a non-rebreather mask ensures that the patient receives a higher concentration of oxygen, which can significantly improve their breathing and oxygenation levels.

Additionally, moving the patient to a lower elevation can help alleviate some of the symptoms associated with altitude sickness or high-altitude pulmonary edema, as atmospheric pressure and oxygen levels are more compatible with respiratory function at lower elevations. This dual approach—supplying oxygen and descending to a more suitable altitude—addresses both the immediate need for oxygen and the underlying cause of the respiratory distress.

This intervention is foundational in emergency response, particularly in high-altitude situations where hypoxia is a primary concern.